Can a court change a child's name over one parent's strong objection?

Yes, a court can order a child's name changed even over one parent's strong objection, but it isn't a routine outcome — the court applies the best-interests-of-the-child test, and an objecting parent's wishes are a real factor that has to be outweighed by something more than the other parent's preference. Courts have recognized a child's name as tied to their identity and their relationship with each parent, so judges generally look for a substantive reason for the change: safety concerns, a name the child has used consistently for years, confusion in school or medical records, or similar practical realities, rather than a parent simply wanting to erase the other parent's connection to the child.

A parent's strong objection doesn't automatically block the application, but it does mean the parent seeking the change needs to bring real evidence, not just a preference, and should expect the objecting parent's relationship with the child to be considered carefully. Anyone seeking a name change over an expected objection should gather documentation supporting the request and get legal advice before starting.